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Education and Training

What is a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner?

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) are registered nurses who have completed specialized education and clinical preparation in the medical forensic care of a patient who has experienced sexual assault or abuse. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners are called to emergency rooms and urgent care centers to interview victims, collect evidence, and document the findings of these assaults. SANE roles are expanding beyond sexual assault to domestic violence, strangulation, intimate person violence, teen dating violence, and human trafficking. Continued education and growth is always at the forefront of the SANE’s career.

How to become a SANE

There are two different kinds of certifications: one within the state and one internationally. International Certification is obtained through IAFN, and requires you to have had your state certification and experience prior to sitting for your international certification exam.

In the state of Texas the Office of the Attorney General oversees the requirements, certification, and renewal. Below are the requirements through the OAG’s office.

  1. RN with 2 years experience
  2. Didactic training completed (may be through IAFN)
  3. 15 Speculum Exams / 20 Well Child Exams completed
  4. 16 Court Observation Hours (Felony, Jury pick to Sentencing, and expert witness testimony)
  5. Review Texas legal process, CV writing, etc. with our staff (as required by OAG)
  6. Complete the required number of precepted Forensic Exams
  7. Submit documentation, applying for certification

Renewal through the OAG is every two years and requires additional CEU’s, peer review attendance, etc. IAFN will have its own renewal requirements.

Additional Resources

International Association of Forensic Nurses

The International Association of Forensic Nurses (or IAFN) offers didactic SANE training, Pediatric Strangulation, IPV, and many other webinars, videos, and training. Some (but not all) are offered free for members. Bluebird’s Hope will cover some of these under contract, please feel free to contact us for more details.

Office of the Attorney General

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) provides information on certification and renewal.

Texas A&M

Texas A&M offers simulated Forensic Nursing Exams, Court hours, Speculum Exams, and Well-Child checks, but classes fill up fast!